Black Bean Casserole Recipe
A hearty layered casserole featuring seasoned black beans, whole-wheat tortillas, salsa, and melted cheddar cheese. The beans are flavored with garlic, cumin, cilantro, and vegetable broth before being assembled into a warm, cheesy baked dish.
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Ingredients
For the Seasoned Black Beans:
- 30 ounces black beans thoroughly drained and rinsed
- 2 garlic cloves finely minced, approximately 1 tablespoon
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin preferably fresh and aromatic
- 1/2 cup low-sodium vegetable broth
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro finely chopped
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- 1/4 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
For Assembling the Casserole:
- 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese preferably 2% reduced-fat to minimize excess grease
- 4 whole-wheat tortillas ideally 6 inches in diameter
- 12 ounces salsa with no added sugar
Instructions
- Heat the oven to 375°F. Drain and thoroughly rinse the black beans, then set them aside while preparing the remaining ingredients.
- Pour the olive oil into a medium skillet and warm it over medium-low heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for approximately 4 minutes, or until tender.
- Stir the drained black beans and vegetable broth into the skillet and continue cooking for about 3 minutes.
- Add the ground cumin, black pepper, salt, and finely chopped cilantro. Stir thoroughly so the seasonings are evenly distributed throughout the bean mixture.
- Lightly coat the bottom of an 8 × 8-inch casserole dish with nonstick cooking spray.
- Place one whole-wheat tortilla in the bottom of the prepared dish. Spread one-quarter of the seasoned black bean mixture over the tortilla, followed by one-quarter of the salsa and one-quarter of the shredded cheddar cheese.
- Repeat the layers with the remaining tortillas, beans, salsa, and cheese until all of the ingredients have been used, making sure the final layer is topped with cheese.
- Cover the casserole dish with aluminum foil and place it in the preheated oven. Bake for approximately 20 minutes, or until the cheese is thoroughly heated and bubbling.
- Remove the foil and return the casserole to the oven for another 8–10 minutes, allowing the cheese on top to develop a lightly browned finish.
- Take the casserole out of the oven and allow it to rest for several minutes before serving. Serve while warm.
Notes
For an optional finishing touch, garnish individual portions with nonfat Greek yogurt or sour cream before serving.